Published 16 October 2026, updated 23 October 2026 · 3 minute read · Written for buyers, not for any one instrument
What to tell the mover
The mover needs specific information to quote accurately and plan the job:
- Piano type and size: upright or grand, the model if known, and whether it is a standard height or a taller model.
- Current location: the floor, whether there is a lift, the corridor and doorway widths, and any steps or ramps.
- Destination: the same details for where the piano is going. If the destination is a different building type (for example, moving from a landed house to an HDB flat), the access may be very different.
- Building access requirements: check with the building operator or management office at both locations about any delivery restrictions, lift booking, loading bay access or timing requirements. Rules vary by building.
For detailed building-specific guidance, see the delivery guide. The sale page shows how Music Companion surveys and carries out a delivery, including specialist moves.
Choosing a piano mover
Ask these questions before confirming:
- Do you regularly move pianos? (Not all movers do.)
- What wrapping, padding and equipment do you use?
- Is the quotation inclusive, or are there separate charges for stairs, distance or time?
- Do you carry insurance for the instrument during the move?
- Can you provide references or examples of previous piano moves?
On moving day
- Clear the path from the piano to the door at the current location, and from the entrance to the piano's new position at the destination.
- Remove any fragile items along the route.
- The piano should be wrapped and protected before it leaves the room. Do not let it be moved uncovered.
- Photograph the piano before the move, including the case, legs, pedals and any existing marks.
Coordinating the move and the follow-up tuning
Moving and tuning are separate jobs. You can enquire about both at the same time, but confirm the scope, individual charges and proposed timing before committing. An enquiry does not confirm either appointment.
Useful questions before confirming:
- Who arranges the tuning? Ask whether the mover coordinates a tuner or whether you book the tuning separately.
- Is the tuning quoted separately or included? Confirm in writing what the quotation covers and which charges are separate.
- When should the tuning happen? Ask the technician to recommend timing for this instrument in its new room, taking the piano, the move and the environment into account rather than assuming a fixed number of weeks.
- Access and dates at both ends: provide access details for collection and delivery, then confirm the moving date and the proposed follow-up visit as parts of the same plan.
- Can the mover recommend a technician for this instrument? A technician who knows the model and its condition may give more specific advice on post-move care.
- What happens if moving dates change? Confirm the cancellation or rescheduling terms for both the move and the tuning before booking.
Yamaha's care guidance explains the effect of temperature and humidity. Kawai recommends a stable environment and consulting a technician for advice specific to the home.
Music Companion can discuss both the move and the follow-up tuning. See the tuning and moving enquiry form to send the details for both jobs together.
After the move
Once the piano is in its new position:
- Check for any new damage to the case, legs or pedals. Compare with your photographs.
- Ask your technician when this instrument should be assessed and tuned in its new environment. The settling time depends on the piano, the move and the conditions in the new room.
- See the tuning service page for booking. Music Companion tunes pianos it sold and pianos bought elsewhere.
- If the new room has significantly different humidity conditions, see the piano care guide for ongoing management.
Piano moving, answered.
Can a regular mover handle a piano?
Pianos are heavy, fragile instruments that require specialist handling, wrapping and equipment. A general household mover may not have the right tools or experience. Use a mover who regularly handles pianos and can explain their process.
Does a piano need tuning after a move?
Moving changes the piano's environment and subjects it to vibration during transport. Ask your technician when this particular instrument should be assessed and tuned in its new room, taking its condition and the new environment into account. The timing varies by instrument and situation.
What access information does the mover need?
The floor level, lift type and dimensions, corridor widths, staircase turns, front door width, and any building management requirements at both locations. Check with the building operator at each end for specific access rules. For detailed guidance, see the delivery guide.
How much does piano moving cost?
Cost depends on the piano type (upright or grand), the distance, the access difficulty at both locations and whether stairs or a crane is involved. Ask the mover for a written quotation after providing the full access details.
Where the rest is set out on this site: Delivery guide: HDB, condo and landed homes → Piano tuning service → Tuning guide: what to know before booking → Piano care and humidity → All guides →
Need to move a piano?
Tell us the piano type, the current location and the destination. We will confirm what is needed.